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GARDEN ROUTE SPORT NEWS - Sedgefield Eagle Stars continued their strong run of form in the SWD President's League Coastal with a nailbiting victory over Greater Knysna Rugby Club on Saturday 11 May.
After a triumphant start to their May fixtures against Bitou on 4 May, Eagle Stars made the trip from Smutsville to Loerie Park sports complex overlooking Knysna's estuary for a clash with Greater Knysna, who haven't had the best of seasons thus far.
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Heading into the encounter, Greater Knysna stood second from bottom on the log, ahead of Young Roses thanks to an extra bonus point, while Eagle Stars were second from the top and following on from a massive victory against Bitou the week before.
The second teams kicked off first as always, and the thus far dominant Eagle Stars side initially struggled to dominate against Greater Knysna in the first half, as the score at half time was only 17-12 to the visitors. In the second half, the Eagle Stars side seemingly returned to their impressive form as they managed to score three tries while keeping Greater Knysna at bay the entire half, with the final score standing at 34-12 to Eagle Stars after the final whistle.
The first teams played in what was the match of the day, as nothing could separate the two sides in the first half. While Eagle Stars were able to bag a converted try and penalty, Greater Knysna weren't far behind thanks to two drop goals and one penalty, which saw the score stand at 10-9 to the visitors heading into the half-time break.
Greater Knysna seemed the more determined side in the second half, as Eagle Stars struggled to dominate in the way that the home side was. Greater Knysna enjoyed prolonged periods of dominance, which gave them a 22-17 lead going into the final 10 minutes. A resurgent Eagle Stars side refused to go down easy and with about seven minutes left they ran in a converted try to go 24-22 ahead.
Greater Knysna were awarded two late penalties with both coming just outside the Eagle Stars' 22m area, but on both occasions they were unable to convert the three-pointers that would have won them the game.
Luzuko Tshona steps onto his right foot to avoid going into touch for Greater Knysna's second team. Photo: Blake Linder
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